Sunday, December 13, 2015

Recap: 'Counting On' Part 1

As the show opens, the producer asks the following question: “How would you describe the last four months of your life?”

Jill: it has been “different than what I had expected.”

Jessa: “We have endured a lot. It’s been really difficult.”

Derick agrees that it has been very emotional, and Ben says the journey has been tough but that it has helped strengthen his marriage.

Jana: It has been “really difficult.”
Joy: “We’re getting through it.”

Josiah: “I was not sure how it would influence our daily lives.” He says that some people were standoffish but that most shared encouraging words.

One month after Israel was born, Derick had his palette surgically expanded. Two months later, Jill and Derick headed down to Central America for the entire month of July.
“We’re not naive to the risk we’re taking [in] taking our infant son down there, but we do want to be true to our calling,” says Derick.

The Dillards returned to Arkansas later in the summer to take care of a few things.

At 35 weeks, Jessa says her pregnancy has been “pretty typical.” As most fans know, the Seewalds kept the gender of their baby a secret until the birth.

“It was really, really frustrating,” says Jessa, of the release of the records that revealed to the world that Josh had inappropriately touched five girls, including four of his sisters, as a young teenager.

“For this to be released…was really, really hard,” agrees Jill.

Jill and Jessa say that they had already chosen to forgive their brother long ago. It had taken time for the Duggars to rebuilt their trust in Josh, but Jessa says that their relationships with him had eventually been restored.

A judge ended up ordering for the records to be destroyed, ruling that they should never have been released, but the girls say the ordeal has still caused their family great pain.

Jana says it has been encouraging to see how the release of the police report has prompted others who have endured similar trials come alongside them.

A few months after those records were released, Josh’s name was linked to a site for people seeking extramarital affairs, and he confessed to having a pornography addiction and being unfaithful to his wife, Anna Duggar.

The entire Duggar family was shocked, as was the world. “As we as a family looked into this situation, you have to wonder, ‘How did this happen?’” shares Jessa.

Jill and Jessa had publicly defended Josh during their interview with Megyn Kelly in June, without knowing about the secrets he had still been harboring.

“I feel like, it wasn’t right for him to let us speak our words without having the full knowledge of what he was hiding,” says Jill.
“We just have to understand that nobody is strong enough. That’s why it is so important to set boundaries…and be accountable and just really focus on your relationship with the Lord, and don’t be a hypocrite. You have to be real.”

When the news broke, Jana, Jinger, and Michelle were at a conference. Jim Bob immediately called Michelle to tell her about Josh’s confession.

“[My mom] sat us down there in the room to share that our brother had been living a double life and that he wasn’t who he appeared to be,” says Jana. Michelle proceeded to tell the girls about the news reports.

"When my mom told us about this, we were just so overwhelmed and so grieved about what had happened," shares Jinger. "And it almost seems like, this person that we knew is no longer the same person. So we just stopped and prayed and asked God to help us get through it."

“[Josh] was one of my role models, and I did look up to him,” explains Joy-Anna. “And it was just really hard to see that he had been making bad choices.”

While the Duggars have chosen once again to forgive Josh, Jana says they still have difficult days.

John-David shares that he now has “a big weight” upon him to be a man that his younger siblings can look up to. “One of the toughest things I ever had to tell my older brother was, ‘I don’t want to be like you anymore,’” John shares.

Jessa and Jinger head out to purchase a used rocker for Baby Seewald and end up finding one that is in near perfect condition. “Jessa and I have always been super close, so now just seeing her pregnant, it’s so strange,” says Jinger, smiling.

Jill and Derick drop by Jessa and Ben’s house so Jill, who recently became a certified professional midwife, can check Baby Seewald’s heart rate. “Growing up, Jill always liked to pretend to be a nurse,” says Jessa. “She’s always had that in her.”

“It’s really cool being a dad because it’s just like a regular person, but in small form,” Derick tells Ben, while giving him fatherhood advice.

Jana, Jill, Jinger, and Joy purchase children’s clothing for the Dillards to take to an orphanage in Central America. The girls enjoy spending time together as sisters before Jill leaves for an extended period of time.

Jessa’s sisters come over for an unannounced visit, and Jana tries to read the ultrasounds to figure out Baby Seewald’s gender. The girls give the Seewalds a bag of gender neutral clothing, which includes an adorable football outfit.

The Duggars host a going away party for Jill, Derick, and Israel, to which they invite everyone who has supported their ministry, either financially or through prayer.

“We are really excited to start the next chapter of our life in Central America,” says Derick.

A few of the Duggars share closing comments:

Joy-Anna: “I think that there is hope for our family. I think there is going to be a new normal.”

Jinger: “It’s amazing how everyone has come closer to each other through this, and I…am just so grateful.”

Josiah: “I think we’ll just have to stay together as a family.”

Jill: “There are exciting things, and I’m sure more challenges, down the road, but right now, we are just taking it one step at a time.”

I enjoyed the show was very happy to see everyone that was on the show. Praying for you all as a family. I know you all are going through a tough time but with your faith in the Lord and seeking direction from the Lord you'll come through even stronger. Keep your heads up you all have a lot of supporters and I am deft. one of them. Love in Christ, Cindy

girls and guys, thank you for sharing you feelings on this show. It has not been an easy for the whole family and especially Anna. May the witness of your your love of the Lord Jesus Christ as he gives you the strength to get through this ordeal in your lives. May this help others who have gone down this path with loves ones to reach out to the Lord for strength. Thanks again for a show well done that was not an easy to do. God Bless You All.

Just wonderful to see the family again! Life does go on. You cant be blamed for what a family member chooses to do. I pray josh will come back and be cured and eveybody doesnt throw stones! I feel sorry for Anna and their children more than anyone God bless this family and help their hearts to heal!!!!

I know I don't know any of you guys personally!!! But I am so proud of you all you guys are an incredibly amazing family and I am praying for all... So keep pressing on. Cause you guys don't know just how big of a blessing you really are to people.... People may criticize but don't let that stop you!!! I'm praying for and I'm really proud of you guys for standing up for yourselves!!!

This feels so good! Redemption! So happy they're back! It's like the storm passed and the sun is coming out! It's a good day to be a Duggar fan. Thank you Lily and Ellie for maintaining this blog through the good times and the bad.

So sorry for all this precious family has been thru. I just cant imagine. I just wonder if something somewhere is joshs preteen life if he was molested.I hope Anna can get thru this evidently. As a wife who also lived thru infidelity, its a LONG HARD road! And the trust is never fully restored. Prayers for all the Duggars. I love your family.

I loved the show, seeing everyone, but saw the pain they are suffering thru. I think Michelle looks very different, still hurting & uncomfortably shy in front of the camera. I found that to be heart breaking. The saddest statement made in the 1 & 1/2 hour show, in my opinion was John-David saying he told josh he didn't want too be like him anymore. I cried with them, sympathized with them & pray for them. I'm anxious to see Anna & her kids, cause I love them. The show was done with class, taste & great compassion. Thfank you Duggar family for sharing such personal heartache with us. God bless you guys. <3

During this show, Derick shared such wisdom when he spoke of hidden things. (You don't mention that above but it is a powerful truth that young people especially need to hear. It would be wonderful if the Duggar/Dillard sites shared a clip of his statement.)

TLC used the hour and a half to promote their other shows. They only had nine companies put commercials on and one of them repeated a few times.Ben seems very nervous about childbirth and fatherhood. Did Derick really need that surgery? I think it was cosmetic and very expensive and he didn't need to do it he looked just fine.

I don't think the actions of one should set the tone for all of them. It was heartbreaking to see these girls have to deal with their brothers actions. Victims of his actions ..they dealt with this years ago. Reliving it daily and publicly is not what our society is about. Helping them heal instead of shaming them would be much better for these wounded victims. God bless them.

All the older Duggar children are amazing. Singularly and together they are finding their way through this difficult time, trusting God as they always do. They inspire any of us who have our own difficulties to face. Thank you, TLC, for airing these episodes in spite of those who object.

I watched the episode and I never expected to be so touched by everything all the kids had to say. I loved it that almost all the children got to speak about their feelings.It brought me to tears. I have always loved your family and may God bless you all. Hopefully you will be able to continue on TLC because it is not right to punish an entire family for one persons actions.

William Walsh phd has the newest information in helping people with addictions and I honestly believe that Josh's actions are more from his chemistry. Addiction is part of mental health. Yes he did something he shouldn't have but his chemistry is the major factor. See Walshresearchinstitute.org and Mensahmedical.com (I don't get paid except in knowing this works to help people)Hated being punished by the media as all Christendom lost out and very happy to see the Duggars again. Prayers!

I enjoyed the show. The young people were honest and down to earth. They have faced the heartache of Joshs horrible decisions, but they are moving forward. Amazing young people. Looking forward to next part II.

Yay! I am glad the Duggar's are back! I don't really agree with the way they made the show though. They should have focused less on the whole case with Josh and more on Jill and Jessa's lives. I think that the family is mending together and moving on and the public should not be in their lives and criticizing them. Many other people have made the same mistakes as Josh and yet they are the people judging their family. And I agree with Jessa about their family not being perfect as most people thought they were. I am happy that the family is praying and moving on. This is a hard time for every family member whether or not they weren't or were involved.

So impressed with the entire family. To face the world, and your critics, after such a difficult year.... And to do it with absolute grace & class.... Bravo!! We are praying for you, and believe that God will work all things together for your good.

I really have a lot of sympathy for the whole family. It was depressing seeing the hurt. But had you chosen to not show the consequences of Josh then the world would tell you that you're fake. I am so glad that you all find comfort in God and lean on Him. You may hear a lot of ridicule but always hold onto that JESUS was persecuted. I cried when I saw the previews for the next episode. I hurt for Anna and her children. Your family is such a role model for me as I just became a mother 6 months ago. I had conviction about birth control and my family doesn't agree with me. It's nice seeing a family that lets God be in control of their family size. Not everyone can have children so the fact that God blessed you with 20 including sweet Jubilee shows you are living in His favor. I might have strayed from topic. Sorry. God bless you all and Merry Christmas.

I was glad to see the Duggar's back on tv, but thought the show was repetitive and boring. I feel like TLC used the best snippets in the commercials to promote the show. Production problem. HOPEFULLY, the fans have supported the show and tuned in, so that TLC will put them back on their regular schedule (minus Josh).

I commend your family for taking this head on.... I am truly sorry for your pain and all this caused you by such selfish people. I am grateful that the Judge asked these papers to be destroyed. May God heal your pain and mend your relationship with your brother. May he get right with God... Your family is such a blessing... I do hope one day you guys will come back to TV... or maybe another book...

I saw the episode, "Jill and Jessa, Counting on," last night. I was welled informed in referenced to their feelings and their acceptance of the things Josh has done. I am so sorry situations are like they are with the Duggars now, I cry for them sometimes. No one should have to go through these types of situations; however, family member should stay together. When family prays together, they should stay together and help to iron out problems and encourage each other to be strong, help each other over stumbling blocks. Everyone was very matured about the situation last night. I know it was painful to know such has happened in the family. However, Josh needs his family, he needs your support because he is hurting too. Don't think you all are the only ones who are hurting. Believe me, Josh is hurting just as bad. God love you all and so do I. Keep going, God gives you a chance everyday, a chance to do what is suppose to be done in life. Continue living your life and continue encouraging Josh and Anna. They have 4 precious children to raise. Their lives are very important, too. It was good to see everyone last night. I am staying praying for you all. <3 Love you guys and always will. When you came into my life, I loved you. When you leave out of my life, I will still love you.<3 I have learned a lot from the whole family. I wish many blessings for you all. <3 God is good all the time. He can turn this situation around and make it a success for the Duggars. <3

Why were Michelle and Jim-Bob so very noticeably not in that show at all? Do they not agree with it being on? The show was well done, but the emphasis should not have been on Josh. It should have made that a minor thing, rather than the focus. Keep the Josh story for Anna to tell.

Brave is the word that comes to my mind after watching the episode from last night.It is nice to see their perspective on what life was/is like for them as a family that has had so much backlash from the media and people of this world.To hear from the older children besides Jim Bob, Michelle and Josh about how this has impacted their lives and what they are doing to overcome these situations is refreshing.Did they repeat a lot of the same questions yes, but there is 18 other voices to have been heard over what they feel and what they are going through.To me they are strong in their faith and convictions and that's all they are doing is telling their story.Everyone wanted to know from the beginning how this man and woman of 19 children did it, and that's what they got a story of their lives and how they do it. My heart goes out to this family and especially Anna. Anna is a strong woman, for having to go through this.Anna sticks to beliefs and her word to God that she will stand by husband for or for worse, and who are we to pass judgement on her for doing so. I pray for her, and that everything works out for her the way God wants it to, but that is up to God and I know that's who she has turned to even stronger now. I commend them and TLC, for letting their voices be heard. I believe they were in the right to show these episodes,because only one side of the story has been told and their are other sides to the story and it's a shame what has happened to them because the acts of few people and the media. No one has yet to stop and put themselves in their shoes and see how they would feel or how it would affect them.my heart goes out to all of the small children in the home who don't have the comprehension to grasp these situations.I feel like it was not the midias right or other people's right to make these issues public it was Joshs place and they took that from him and his family

There are those who WILL criticize this family, no matter how hard they have to look for reasons. We can be sure that TLC asked many questions. For this installment of the mini-series, TLC chose to focus on how the family was blindsided by such devastating news. The Duggars are now accused of not caring about how it impacted Anna. Do you really think that won't be addressed in the upcoming installments? Their own initial announcement stated that they would give their whole-hearted support to Anna and the children while Josh sought help. Meanwhile, a recent picture showed Jana holding Meredith. Were the Duggars given credit for being part of Anna's support system? No - they were criticized for forcing Jana into the so-called Cinderella life of watching Anna's children. Shaking my head...

For anyone who missed seeing it, I think TLC will rerun it again Tuesday evening. You would have to check your local times. As far as Comment #8, Anna will be on next week's episode. It was good to see them on T.V. again. They have been through a terribly painful time but they seem to be coping as well as they possibly can be. They need the continued support, encouragement and prayers from those of us who care about them!

The show was wonderful, although a few didn't/don't understand the seriousness of what Josh did. It did not hurry the girls or fellows with their opinions regarding the last four month question. I felt so sorry for all the Duggar girls and especially John David. He showed much maturity and resolve by telling Josh he didn't want 'to be like him' any longer. Plus JD acknowledged the fact that his younger siblings were looking up to him as a role model. Such precious love and forgiveness in that family! I am looking forward to hearing Anna speak in the next show.

TLC!! I did not like the ending shots of this show and the beginning of the next one at all! Should be more professional than that!

@Anonymous I agree. A lot of blaming the media instead of taking full responsibility for their own actions. I think the Duggars motives of originally wanting to show a wholesome family have been tainted by the love of money. A dangerous place to be as Christians.

So proud of how strong you guys are in the midst of a storm. I could see how terribly hurt all of you are by Josh's actions. Just stay close to the Lord he will guide you. your mom and dad have done a great job on teaching you all about the Lord. I love all of you and hope in time you can get past all this and get back to being the happy family you were. It was great to see you again, I have missed you all. Hope this tells TLC something about your character and keeps you on TV Love you all!.

I have a new admiration and respect for John David in knowing that he's now the one for his younger siblings to look to as the role model. It takes a lot of courage to be able to tell his older brother that he no longer wants to be like him. And it takes wisdom to understand that his siblings need a strong figure as their role model. Way to go John!

The pain this family has felt was palpable last night. Jana, Jinger and John David especially touched me. This is a reality show and this has been their reality these past months. When Jana spoke about not knowing whom to trust she was speaking on so many levels. Her brother, good weather friends, the officials that allowed the damaging info leaked, the media and on and on it goes. It struck me last night finally seeing Anna at the end that she more beautiful then ever. She looked strong behind that hurt. I will pray for all the Duggars to find that peace that passes all understanding.

Very sad to hear each one speak. Some comments seemed like they were so private so I'm left wondering why they feel the need to tell all on TV. I really hope this family will step away from being on TV so they can heal. Doesn't quite seem fair the family has to come out and bear the scandal before the media while Josh is silent.

I think jessa said it best, when she commented that everyone thought they were this perfect family. Shame on everyone including TLC for even suggesting they are perfect. She is right they are like any normal family, the biggest difference is they have 19 children so of course you stand a very good chance that one if not more are going to make some very bad choices in life. I still love the duggars and will continue to pray for them and especially anna, that is who it is going to affect more than anyone and their children. It should be their choice if they wish to continue with their show. I am sure that at this time I would not until things settle down. But shame on anyone that stands in judgment of this family, no family is perfect I sure know mine is not. Also Jill said it best also that we all make choices we just have to be willing to pay the consequences for our own choices.

Sadly I didn't get to watch it 'cause I don't have cable:( But I LOVED getting on the blog and seeing the recap! I'm so glad that they are on tv again! They are an amazing family! I hope someday I am fortunate enough to meet them! That would be awesome! Love your family so much!

I enjoyed seeing the duggars back on TV, I respect the candidness from the family members about what they are going through. For all the naysayers out there who are whining about them being back on TV, I have just one thing to say. If you don't like the Duggars then don't watch the Duggars, then you'll have nothing to whine and complain about. What a novel idea.

Loved the first episode... thank you so much Duggars for sharing this very painful place in your life. I felt that the show portrayed real emotion and you could feel the devastation of each family member as the spoke about the situation. I am praying for your family and for complete healing... not only for the family... but especially for Josh and Anna! I am looking forward to seeing the next episode where Anna will talk... I too have been through this devastating ordeal... so from one sister to another... I love you and God will make a path for you to get past all of this pain! I pray that God's light will shine through this whole situation. We are all sinners and we all fall... it is how we get back up that matters... I have been at the foot of the cross for many situations in my life... I know that you are all there and I know that God in Heaven will answer!

Thanks for sharing your hearts with us. You have a lot of people praying for you. Romans 8:18 says, "I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us." Still hard but our steadfastness and focus on the Lord surely is our strength. Love you all. Hope to see everyone back on TV. I believe your motive for wanting to share your life with us is to honor God. The money is an added blessing I'm sure. There is not much on TV to look forward to but your program is one that I look forward too. Again, may your Christmas be a joyful time for you.His Blessings,Sandy B.

Have watched you all from the beginning, your joys and sorrows. Just want to add my prayers for all of you as you make your way through this darkness, that you are ever aware of all the bright lights God is shining upon you.

To Stephanie in Virginia...I had the exact same jaw surgery that Derick had. It's for orthodontic reasons, not for cosmetic reasons. It is a very tough, serious, and painful surgery to go through, and no one goes into it lightly. I myself lost 25 pounds after the surgery (and as a 15 year old girl, I didn't have 25 pounds to lose)...you can't eat or drink normally for several weeks and months while your jaw bones and teeth heal. The jaw surgery helps improves a lot of things, such as breathing, speech, sleeping, chewing, pain, and it alleviates a lot of negative things. When your teeth and jaw are not aligned correctly, it causes many issues like neck pain, jaw pain, headaches, breathing problems, eating problems, speech, and sleeping problems. Next time, maybe do some research before judging others. ;) :)

I wish I still had cable unfortunately that's not possible. Hoping to find another way one day. Hoping the best for you all. Glad your able to put what the shows are all about on your site. I had watched you all from the beginning, but as you know changes come about in our lives and we just must go with the flow and accept the challenge that has been given us. We learn something by all of these changes in our life. I do pray for Josh, Anna, and their family.

What an inspirational show this week! My heartfelt prayers and support goes out to Jill, Jana, and their husbands and families. It takes a lot to go thru what they are going thru. I have done it - without a camera following me! I pray for Anna, Josh and their little ones, too. Thanks to TLC for giving us another look into the Duggar lives and their strong faith. I love this family and miss Michelle, Jim Bob and the rest of the children. I hope we will be treated to a view of these folks in the future episodes. TLC, HOPE YOU LISTEN....There is a strong following for the Duggar Family! Looking forward to more.......Sincerely

I know this post is old, but the documents were destroyed? I understand that the actual paper documents were destroyed. However, the documents are still on the internet. They are accessible basically anyone who has wifi. A minor said she wanted the documents destroyed to protect her identity. People have sadly identified who the victims were especially after reading posts by 'Alice.' Prayers for the family

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Welcome! We are the premiere source for factual, encouraging updates on Jim Bob & Michelle Duggar and their 19 kids (TLC's 19 Kids and Counting & Counting On). Our site is not maintained by the Duggars, but we (Lily and Ellie) are personal friends of the family.